TRURO - A former Bible Hill resident returns to town this week and he's bringing Corner Gas comedian Brent Butt with him.
Jamie Hutchinson, who grew up in the village, has been friends with the Corner Gas star for more than 20 years. The two have made their career in comedy, done a few projects together and Hutchison often opens for Butt during stand-up shows.
"We met in Toronto at a comedy club and had a similar sense of humour ... very funny and quick," said Hutchinson, now a resident of Vancouver.
Hutchinson got into comedy by "frequenting comedy clubs, liking it and giving it a shot." His first time in the spotlight was "awesome" followed by a disappointing second show.
"It sucked hard ... the audience was indifferent," said Hutchinson, who "held on to the first night's" success and never looked back.
He began opening for Butt on a "pretty regular" basis and the two used to produce live shows and a variety of TV shows together. He also was a guest star on Corner Gas in the first season, as hockey player Rocket Ronnie.
"That was a lot of fun ... but I love opening for him on the road, too. I don't mind Brent getting all the accolades," he chuckled.
Butt is quick to ensure Hutchinson doesn't undersell himself.
"People know what they like and when Jamie makes them laugh" at Butt's shows they are both remembered, Butt said.
As for him, Butt knew at an early age laughter would drive his career.
"I knew I wanted to do comedy ... at age 12 I told my mom that," Butt said, who began stand-up routines in high school.
His first official stand-up gig in a club was at the age of 21. Within a couple of years Butt was touring internationally and appearing at major festivals.
"You just take it day by day and hope you don't bomb," downplayed Butt.
He then created Corner Gas, which became Canada's #1 comedy for six seasons.
"It (took) off and never stopped" gaining popularity, Butt said.
He continues to take his stand-up routine on the road and has created a new series for CTV called Hiccups. The comedy begins airing March 1 at 8 p.m. on CTV.
"It's about a children's author who has anger issues and has a less than qualified life coach ... it's like the blind leading the blind," explained Butt. His character is the life coach; the author is played by Nancy Robertson, who played Wanda on Corner Gas.
Despite his TV success, Butt said stand-up comedy remains a passion.
"I could never quit standup ... it's a nonstop volcano of hilarity," he said.
Butt and Hutchinson will appear at Cobequid Educational Centre Feb. 12 at 7:30 p.m. For ticket information ($35), call the Marigold Cultural Centre box office.